11/29/2010, 5 p.m.

LOS ANGELES, Calif.--Dozens of schools districts and schools in Los Angeles and Orange counties were awarded more than $13.6 million in federal grants to bolster programs that help students prepare for "college and careers,'' it was announced today.

A total of 37 districts and schools in the two counties received Enhancing Education Through Technology Competitive Grants.

The funds originated from the $862 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

A total of $36 million was allocated to the California Department of Education, which determined how much to disperse to school districts statewide based on their applications.

"These grants will help schools use data effectively to improve student achievement and close the achievement gap,'' said state Superintendent of Schools Jack O'Connell. "With the state budget crisis continuing, our cash-strapped schools desperately need these funds as soon as possible so they can use education data and technology to better prepare students for college and careers.''

The grants will pay for data collection on graduation rates and aid in facilitating student preparation for a transition to higher education or a profession, according to the DOE.